News Article: Fake School Canteen Furniture Tender Scam Costs Sales Executive RM50,750
By The Furniture Times – Malaysia News Desk
KUALA TERENGGANU, Malaysia — A 29-year-old sales executive has been cheated out of RM50,750 after falling victim to a fraudulent government tender scam involving the supposed supply of furniture for a school canteen — highlighting growing concerns about tender-related scams targeting businesses in the furniture and supplies sectors.
According to police, the woman, who works for a company supplying office and institutional furniture, was contacted on Feb 5 by a man claiming to be a government officer offering an urgent tender to supply chairs and tables for a primary school canteen in the Marang district of Terengganu.
How the Scam Worked
Kuala Terengganu police chief Asisten Komisioner Azli Mohd Noor said the suspect first convinced the victim that she had secured the tender, supplying convincing details about the project. The fraudster then provided contact information for another person posing as a supplier, allegedly able to source the furniture at a lower price.
Believing the offer was legitimate, the sales executive — acting on behalf of her employer — made a bank transfer of RM50,750 at around 2:25 a.m. to an account specified by the scammer, using company funds. It was only later that she discovered no such tender ever existed.
Report and Investigation
Realising she had been defrauded, the victim lodged a police report at about 5:27 p.m. on the same day. Authorities confirmed the incident is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code, which deals with cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property.
Police continue to investigate the case, urging businesses and individuals to verify the authenticity of tender offers, especially those that originate through non-official channels or unsolicited contact.
Broader Scam Concerns
This incident reflects a broader pattern of fraudulent tender offers that have recently affected individuals and businesses in Malaysia, particularly in government-linked or institutional supply categories. Previous cases have reported victims facing significant financial losses after falling victim to similar scams, emphasising the need for enhanced vigilance and verification protocols.
Businesses are advised to cross-check tender notices with official government portals and confirm the legitimacy of procurement teams before proceeding with any payment or contract commitments.
